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Finally Getting Nordstrands For Lakie 55-94
- Thread starter tallboybass
- Start date
Has anybody tried juicing the Bart preamp up to 18v on a Lakland? What did you think....was it worth it?
In the LH3 vs. Bartolini thread, there was a person or two who preferred the sound of the bart preamp when it was cranked. Check that thread out and see if you come across it.
Also, I'm still super curious on how these pickups actually sound, even though your impressions have been great so far. I know you can't record any clips, but I was thinking... Have you listened to the audio files on Lakland's website? there are a number of clips there that show off the tone of the LH3 pickups. Maybe you could give them a listen and let us know how the Nordstrand's compare if you have a chance. I'm really close to pulling the trigger on this swap!
Also, I'm still super curious on how these pickups actually sound, even though your impressions have been great so far. I know you can't record any clips, but I was thinking... Have you listened to the audio files on Lakland's website? there are a number of clips there that show off the tone of the LH3 pickups. Maybe you could give them a listen and let us know how the Nordstrand's compare if you have a chance. I'm really close to pulling the trigger on this swap!
I think the bart preamp sounds best by far at unity gain. At that point it is just buffering you from cable effects and allowing you plenty of EQ headroom.
When you crank it up, its gets more furry in the mids and more compressed.
When you crank it up, its gets more furry in the mids and more compressed.
Hi, I have listened to those quite a bit actually....and realized how hard it is to compare computer sound clips to real life - through an amp. I'm running it through a MarkBass SD800 set flat and Epifani UL1-410. That being said, my impression is that the Nord neck PU (NJ5S) is darker than the neck PU in the clip, and the MM 5.4 is more MusicMan-ish(?) soloed than the LH-3....and maybe brighter. Hope this helps.
I've got mine set at unity now with these PUs since they don't need a boost. I guess it would be silly to run it at 18v if you don't boost and usually run EQ flat, eh?
I think you'll be fine, but then again I'm not sure how the pre works with a hotter pickup. Is it gain that determines headroom or total output?
If you crank the bass and treble, and it still sound clean and dynamic, then I'd say you're totally fine for running flat. If it starts to clamp down then maybe an 18v system would be better (aggie anyone?
)
It doesn't seem to compress like it did when I cranked it for the Barts. I'm amazed that the blend pot works so much better with these PUs! Why would that be?I think you'll be fine, but then again I'm not sure how the pre works with a hotter pickup. Is it gain that determines headroom or total output?
If you crank the bass and treble, and it still sound clean and dynamic, then I'd say you're totally fine for running flat. If it starts to clamp down then maybe an 18v system would be better (aggie anyone?
Awesome. The blend thing makes sense ... the impedance of the pickups are probably very different from the barts, and its a passive blend system, so all the RLC parameters interact.
You're giving me GAS! I've got nordies coming in my Valenti PJ5, and if I dig them like I think I will, a 55-94 retrofit may be in my future.
Wow, didn't mean to start an itching....
I need to get some pics, with all those exposed polepieces, it looks pretty hot!
Let us know what you think of those....I've got a P and a J that might end up Nordified!
Carey ought make up some stickers that say ...
"This Bass has Been Nordified!!"
Amen brutha!Carey ought make up some stickers that say ...
"This Bass has Been Nordified!!"
So I am placing the order for the Nordstrands on Monday. Are you still feeling good about the swap?
Yes....I can recommend them highly as a replacement for the Barts....IMO. I'm sure the LH-3s are fine too, I was just looking for something less "hi-fi". But it has transformed the bass in my eyes, much for the better.
Oh.....I've been reading about Audere preamps. I really didn't plan to replace the pre, but these things look like they're the bomb! Is it possible to get an Audere to fit the Lakland?
Justin @ The Bass Exchange has been trying to get a hold of someone from Nordstrand since Friday so that he can order them for me. As soon as they return his phone call, they will be on their way! I'm pumped. From what you have described, it sounds as though the 55-94/Nordstrand combo is a true "musicman meets jazz" hybrid.
